Discover University of Tennessee’s Groundbreaking FIFA World Cup Turf Research
The University of Tennessee (UT) is leading innovative research on turf management to ensure optimal playing conditions for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. This prestigious tournament will take place across 16 stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, hosting 104 matches.
Groundbreaking Turf Research
Professor John Sorochan, a leading expert in turfgrass science at UT, and his team are in the final stages of their investigation. Their work aims to produce pristine turf that performs consistently at all match venues. This essential research follows practical applications earlier this year during the Club World Cup.
Collaboration and Testing
The University of Tennessee is collaborating with Michigan State University and FIFA to conduct this advanced turf research. A significant facility at the East Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center has been developed to replicate conditions in five domed stadiums set to host matches.
- Stadium Locations: Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Vancouver
- Match Schedule: June 11 to July 19, 2025
This covered facility allows researchers to experiment with different types of turf and lighting conditions. They utilize LED grow lights to simulate the conditions inside these stadiums, ensuring the grass achieves optimal growth.
Innovative Techniques and Technology
One groundbreaking technique involves growing sod on plastic, which promotes root development and allows for quick installation in stadiums. Approximately 5% of this sod consists of artificial fibers, which enhance stability. Each sod piece is about 2 inches thick, allowing for rapid assembly and disassembly.
Advanced Growth Simulation
The research team has identified that around 12 hours of light daily is ideal for maintaining turf health. Different color wavelengths impact grass growth in distinct ways. Blue light encourages sturdy, short growth, while red light promotes lush green expansion.
The fLEX Machine
In response to field safety concerns, Sorochan and research associate Kyley Dickson created the fLEX machine. This equipment simulates foot strikes, enabling researchers to assess how athletes interact with the playing surface. The innovative tool has garnered interest from NFL teams and is now sold to SGL System, a company specializing in grow lights.
Key Findings and Future Plans
UT’s research has yielded successful results using warm-season Bermuda grass, which they plan to implement at the World Cup, particularly in warmer climates. This decision reflects their adaptability, even in comparison to the dominant Kentucky Bluegrass typically used on soccer fields.
Additionally, the choice between a shallow pitch and a slightly elevated turf will be determined based on each stadium’s requirements. A vital layer of geotextile fabric will be utilized to ensure proper water drainage and turf stability.
Consistency and Player Safety
The primary goal of this research is to provide a uniform playing surface for all athletes during the tournament. Consistency is critical not just for performance but also for ensuring player safety. Sorochan emphasizes that the aim is to minimize external factors that may impact the quality of the playing surface.
As the FIFA World Cup approaches, the collaboration between UT, FIFA, and Michigan State University continues, ensuring the highest standards in turf management for the world’s premier soccer tournament.
